Contributors program/June 10, 2011
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[ AGENDA ] * XO-1.5 production machines available: http://blog.laptop.org/2010/02/25/xo-1-5-early-production-laptops-free-to-contributors-worldwide/ * New projects & libraries -- teaching them Community Outreach: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/XO_Laptop_Lending_Libraries * Which projects might you enjoy Mentoring below?! http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Projects http://rt.laptop.org/Search/Results.html?Query=Queue=%27contributors%27 * Fast Review of the 7 latest (greatest!) HW/Project Proposals -- please join us advocating for, and/or reviewing shortcomings of these proposals: #1 OLPC Training, Math and Secondary Students - Peace Corps Masters Intl, Calif State Univ Northridge #2 OLPC Tanzania Rural Cancer Prevention Initiative - Dallas, TX #3 GPS navigator for bicycle (with modified charger for bicycle) - Beijing, China #4 Rotary Literacy XO Repair Facility - Guatemala & Marysville, WA #5 SWAG for Upcoming LUG Meeting - Los Angeles, CA #6 Turning Slumdogs into Millionaires/Vocational Skills Transfer - Kolkata, India #7 OLPC Paktika, with Paiwastoon - Afghanistan [ PREGAME SHOW ] <NtugiMark> GrannieB, has the meeting started? <GrannieB> Not yet... Adam is still working on the email. We saw 3 vultures feasting on a roadkill deer on our way back from the post office today <MikeDawson> Beautiful <cjl> MikeDawson: were you with Paiwastoon or is that a different Mike Dawson? <MikeDawson> cjl: This is the Mike Dawson of PAIWASTOON <MikeDawson> cjl: Haven't yet found so many other Mike Dawsons in the OLPC community <cjl> Ah, pinged you about Dari and Pshto L10n status. <cjl> MikeDawson: It was th ewhois of where you were coming fro that didn't make sense <cjl> I hope you can rally the localizers for a sprint on fa_AF and ps <MikeDawson> You got me at exactly the right time <cjl> How so? <cjl> I'm just hoping the L10n can be improved for the 11.2.0 release (fa_AF and ps are target langs) <MikeDawson> We've started working on translating Ubuntu as well so I have translators around <cjl> MikeDawson: we can continue this conversation on another channel (I see you are also in #olpc-help) so as to not disrupt the Contributors prog meeting <MikeDawson> cjl: sure - or I'm on skype as well as mike.dawson <cjl> MikeDawson: I'd love to poiont you guys at some GNOME upstream modules that we need to :-) <MikeDawson> cjl: do you wanna continue in olpc-help or skype? * sandrat has joined #olpc-meeting <CanoeBerry> Sorry guys, those that remain we can now fly thruy these 7 projects: <CanoeBerry> http://lists.laptop.org/pipermail/devel/2011-June/032261.html <CanoeBerry> Shall we begin? <CanoeBerry> Contributors Program voting on the above 7 projects begins now. PLEASE read each projects in the above agenda quick! <GrannieB> I can advocate for #1 <CanoeBerry> OK [ PROJECT #1 - OLPC Training, Math and Secondary Students - Peace Corps Masters Intl, Calif State Univ Northridge ] <CanoeBerry> Let's start with Project #1 <CanoeBerry> Plz all critique/mentor/vote for: <CanoeBerry> OLPC Training, Math and Secondary Students - Peace Corps Masters <CanoeBerry> Intl, Calif State Univ Northridge <CanoeBerry> http://rt.laptop.org/Ticket/Display.html?id=81518 <CanoeBerry> http://www.csun.edu/~vcmth014/peacecorps/PCMI_10_2010.html <CanoeBerry> SPECIFIC SITE NEEDS TO BE POSTED OFF http://olpcMAP.net & <CanoeBerry> http://j.mp/6UhCtd <CanoeBerry> Requests 10 XOs over 36 months <CanoeBerry> Project Objectives: <CanoeBerry> California State University, Northridge (CSUN) requests 10 OLPC <CanoeBerry> computers for instruction of Math and Secondary Education CSUN Peace <CanoeBerry> Corps Master's International students. CSUN students will learn to use <CanoeBerry> existing educational software and develop new projects appropriate for <CanoeBerry> middle and high school level students. We will also teach CSUN <CanoeBerry> students use to some tools developed by CSUN faculty for Mathematics. <CanoeBerry> cbigenho: got suggestions/ideas around pushing Project #1 forward here? * christianabryant has joined #olpc-meeting <CanoeBerry> Caryl? <CanoeBerry> Plz give us a bit of context quickly. <CanoeBerry> How well do you know this group in/near LA, what are their strengths, etc. <GrannieB> Carol has a program at CSUN that combines a credential program with 2 years in the Peace Corps <CanoeBerry> christianabryant: opinions on Project #1 here? AGENDA: http://lists.laptop.org/pipermail/devel/2011-June/032261.html <GrannieB> It has been in existance for quite a while <christianabryant> Do we know the submitter? <CanoeBerry> GrannieB: have you met this group face-to-face? What does this project most need? <christianabryant> Seems like a great candidate off the bat. <GrannieB> They would like to train their teachers to use the XO and Sugar with the idea that they will deploy to areas where the XOs might be in use <CanoeBerry> How many XO-1s (likely) are reasonable? <GrannieB> Yes, Carol has come to my house to get oriented on the XO <MikeDawson> Good to raise awareness amongst international development types of the potential of technology <CanoeBerry> XO-1.5s are in very tight supply, but you have your own library there in LA if nec. <GrannieB> She currently has one from the SoCal library and has been working with it. Will keep it over the summer <christianabryant> I could give mine up. <CanoeBerry> GrannieB: plz suggest a forward path -- what number of XOs will this group benefit most from this summer? <GrannieB> She is using a 1.0 right now <GrannieB> The new students come into the program at the end of the summer. But, she will probably benefit by having them sooner. <CanoeBerry> How many? <CanoeBerry> Sorry XO-1.5s are not falling from the sky :) <GrannieB> XO-1s are fine. They might be what the students will encounter in the field <CanoeBerry> Let's conclude. * ndoiron has joined #olpc-meeting <GrannieB> If they learn on XO-1s a transfer to 1.5s would be easy when they get deployed <CanoeBerry> +1 if a reasonable number of XO-1s involved. * sandrat Quit (Quit: CGI:IRC (EOF)) <CanoeBerry> GrannieB: can they stary with 5 XO-1s now? <CanoeBerry> GrannieB: can they start with 5 XO-1s now? <christianabryant> +1 since there are SoCal representatives in the area. <CanoeBerry> Yes <GrannieB> Can we approve it tentatively with me to follow up for the exact minimum she can get by with? <CanoeBerry> Let's make sure there's traction -- no XOs stuck in the closet please. <CanoeBerry> Let's get a guideline here -- we don't have infinite supplies of XO-1s, and must balance requests among other projects today. <NtugiMark> +1 <CanoeBerry> Let's shoot for 5 for now, please? <CanoeBerry> OK? <GrannieB> How about 6 to start.... then she can borrow more while she apply for more if needed <GrannieB> 0K 5 will work for starters. <cjl> +1 <CanoeBerry> Thanks: When will this number be finalized? <GrannieB> +1 for 5 <CanoeBerry> We'll fine tune after. <CanoeBerry> Calling once.. <CanoeBerry> Calling twice.. <CanoeBerry> Calling thrice.. <CanoeBerry> APPROVED for (about) 5 XO-1 laptops, as Caryl Bigenho will help finalize. [ PROJECT #2 - OLPC Tanzania Rural Cancer Prevention Initiative - Dallas, TX ] <CanoeBerry> Onto Project #2 now -- please all critique/mentor/vote for: <CanoeBerry> OLPC Tanzania Rural Cancer Prevention Initiative - Dallas, TX <CanoeBerry> http://rt.laptop.org/Ticket/Display.html?id=81646 <CanoeBerry> SPECIFIC SITE NEEDS TO BE POSTED OFF http://olpcMAP.net & <CanoeBerry> http://j.mp/6UhCtd <CanoeBerry> Requests 4 XOs and 12 months <CanoeBerry> Project Objectives: <CanoeBerry> The Healthnovations International-UT Dallas Chapter aims to utilize <CanoeBerry> the OLPC laptops in order to establish a thorough curriculum to promote <CanoeBerry> cancer awareness to the Tanzanian community. The goal of the project is <CanoeBerry> to empower pediatric cancer victims in the region to access information <CanoeBerry> about the causes and consequences of the disease and to assist their <CanoeBerry> communities in combating pediatric cancer with access to primary <CanoeBerry> healthcare, education, counseling, emotional support, and medical care. <christianabryant> http://healthnovations.org/ * Indigo-Gold-25 has joined #olpc-meeting <GrannieB> I have a conflict of interest. I will sit this one out. <CanoeBerry> REMINDER around Project #1 -- all projects receiving laptops must post a bullet summary/blog or their work on http://olpcMAP.net thanks! <GrannieB> Right <CanoeBerry> GrannieB - help us understand, regardless please. <CanoeBerry> Advocate for Project #2, notwithstanding your personal connection to the applicant. <GrannieB> family problem <CanoeBerry> NP <GrannieB> UTD is on my blacklist right now <christianabryant> are they already part of the program: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/University_chapters <ndoiron> CanoeBerry: I don't have a lot of time; can I just ask a few questions to the Beijing map project person? <CanoeBerry> Others please comment/critique? <CanoeBerry> ndoiron: squeeze them in, yes. <ndoiron> if they could be next that would be great <ndoiron> sorry to interrupt <cjl> What happened wit hthe first batch of XOs that these folks got? <CanoeBerry> they are next <CanoeBerry> cjl: which? <cjl> UTD <CanoeBerry> when? <CanoeBerry> remind us?! <cjl> They mention having gotten some before, did they do rgeat things with them? <CanoeBerry> Hmm <christianabryant> This is what I read: <christianabryant> Project Leader of OLPC Tanzania Asad Moten, a sophomore at MIT and executive director of Healthnovations International, is deploying XO laptops for HIV/AIDS prevention, diagnostics, and treatment at tertiary community clinics and schools in rural Tanzania. <cjl> Previously, in order to address these issues, the Healthnovations International collaborated with OLPC to implement a pilot program distributed 30 educational laptops to rural clinicians across Tanzania to conduct CD4 blood counts, lead local HIV preventative education workshop, maintain patient records, and track local antiretroviral drug distribution in their communities. <CanoeBerry> Oh right, here's that prior/related HIV project using OLPC XOs alongside microscopes: <CanoeBerry> http://rt.laptop.org/Ticket/Display.html?id=38094 <cjl> I'm suggesting judging plus or minus some points based on previous resuolts <CanoeBerry> http://wiki.laptop.org/go/OLPC_Tanzania <CanoeBerry> + and - :) <ndoiron> if they have laptops already, and we don't know what they've done with them - <CanoeBerry> While the Kenya HIV Microscope project had lots of merits, MIT student and Clinton Foundation (I'm told) backing, but I don't know the latest. <CanoeBerry> Starter kit? <CanoeBerry> IE I suggest 2 XO-1s to see how they (the new Tanzania Cancer project) are able to move forward. <CanoeBerry> Suggestions? <CanoeBerry> Objections? <christianabryant> none here based on the existing documentation... <CanoeBerry> A mentor would help. <CanoeBerry> Calling once.. <CanoeBerry> Calling twice.. <CanoeBerry> Calling thrice.. <christianabryant> sorry - not this time :) <Indigo-Gold-25> hi I am still reading. It is interesting, but not sure I"ll do some mentoring, but would like to share the mentoring <Indigo-Gold-25> cause I'm tight on time <CanoeBerry> CONCLUSION: Mentor sought -- tentatively approved for an XO-1 starter kit of 2 units if a mentor is found and/or more detailed project plan is posted, beyond: http://healthnovations.org/projects.aspx <CanoeBerry> Indigo-Gold-25: Thanks Sandra Thaxter. <cjl> I did my post-doc in Pediatric Oncology at Johns Hopkins, so I'm sympathetic to their goals, but I'm tight on time too. [ PROJECT #3 - GPS navigator for bicycle (with modified charger for bicycle) - Beijing, China ] <CanoeBerry> Onto Project #3 now -- plz all critique/mentor/vote for: <CanoeBerry> GPS navigator for bicycle (with modified charger for bicycle) - <CanoeBerry> Beijing, China <CanoeBerry> http://rt.laptop.org/Ticket/Display.html?id=81836 <CanoeBerry> SPECIFIC SITE NEEDS TO BE POSTED OFF http://olpcMAP.net & <CanoeBerry> http://j.mp/6UhCtd <CanoeBerry> Requests 1 XOs over 9 months <CanoeBerry> Project Objectives: <CanoeBerry> 1. Since I will be a volunteer to teach some students in Qinghai <CanoeBerry> Province(a very poor province of china) late July, if I can get one <CanoeBerry> before <CanoeBerry> July, I can take it to these children to find out how favor do them <CanoeBerry> like this , and what do they want and so on. 2. Help with some translate <CanoeBerry> projects although my english is also very poor... 3. Since the olpc <CanoeBerry> 1.75 works only 2W, so we can use the hand-shake charger to charge <CanoeBerry> it for <CanoeBerry> all the use. <CanoeBerry> But it will do us a favor if we can charge the battery while <CanoeBerry> riding bicycles! 4. With a usb gps receiver connected to our olpc <CanoeBerry> laptop , and bind it to the bicycle , we can use it as a good navigator. <CanoeBerry> We can develop a program using google map api, providing some <CanoeBerry> history and culture information arround where you are, and you can <CanoeBerry> also select anywhere to learn something about the place you select. I <CanoeBerry> think I can develop it using Qt. <CanoeBerry> ndoiron: ? <ndoiron> Map / OfflineMap Activities can cover this <ndoiron> right now it imports KML and other popular formats <CanoeBerry> Will such bike-charging even work? <ndoiron> sounds like this person would want to get it to import GPX as well, to get from the GPS <MikeDawson> is there alreadyd something on the XO for getting data from a GPS? <CanoeBerry> I'm willing to consider even a demo -- but praticality questions abound as well. <ndoiron> that's a battery power question. No idea <MikeDawson> Geo Location could be quite useful <Indigo-Gold-25> What is the role of XO in this project <MikeDawson> the bike charging can definitely work <MikeDawson> other laptops or devices could also be suitable - just a matter of ruggedness <GrannieB> We don't have 1.75s yet, do we <cjl> Sounds a bit like a hacker who wants t omess around wit hsome cool tech, not that we don't like that, but will it really produce results? <MikeDawson> AFAIR peddling a kids bike is at least 60 or 70W <ndoiron> they're teaching some kids <GrannieB> Would a 1.0 or 1.5 work in this instance? <CanoeBerry> This nice series from Low-tech Magazine alleges pedal-power is highly overrated: <CanoeBerry> http://www.lowtechmagazine.com/2011/05/history-of-pedal-powered-machines.html <CanoeBerry> http://www.lowtechmagazine.com/2011/05/bike-powered-electricity-generators.html <CanoeBerry> http://www.lowtechmagazine.com/2011/05/pedal-powered-farms-and-factories.html <ndoiron> well like all non-nuclear sustainable power, it's a gimmick <christianabryant> how many one-off xos are out there for similar projects right now? is there a prioritization process outside of this meeting? "approve for feasibility"? <ndoiron> but an earth-friendly one <MikeDawson> does the guy have some kind of history of having contributed or gotten other results? <ndoiron> I would like to know that, too <ndoiron> it sounds like they mostly want to go to the school with an XO and this is a project they'd be interested in adding onto it <ndoiron> it's certainly possible <CanoeBerry> conclusions? * ndoiron Quit (Quit: CGI:IRC) <christianabryant> ask for more information; perhaps draw up a document outlining the technical plan? <MikeDawson> +1 for christianabryant <cjl> An intern at Intel should be able t oprovide a mor edetailed plan <christianabryant> also identify the long-term benefit to olpc and the users. <CanoeBerry> We don't know this applicant, but I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt if others trust in his approach, even if there's a demoware / learning gimmick aspect. <MikeDawson> having a bike charger in parts of the world would for sure be nice <CanoeBerry> Him or Her. <CanoeBerry> Recommendations so we can move on? <GrannieB> After the neat tinkering I saw in Montevideo, I'm all for sending one XO-1 to let him tinker? <MikeDawson> Ask for a more detailed plan and any past work history and then if so provide the laptop <GrannieB> His/Her English is limited. <GrannieB> +1 for 1 XO-1 <CanoeBerry> A pair of XO-1s in a starter kit is generally what we can offer, if we believe in this contributor participating/documenting :) <GrannieB> Does anyone here read Chinese? <CanoeBerry> Not me. Votes? Objections? <GrannieB> The request was for one <cjl> abstain <christianabryant> +1 for MikeDawson <christianabryant> pending response on plan and past work... <CanoeBerry> +1 - we won't hold it against the applicant that he/she interns at Intel :) <christianabryant> but not drawn out - quick turnaround on the request. <CanoeBerry> Great. <CanoeBerry> Calling once.. <CanoeBerry> Calling twice.. <NtugiMark> greed about plan and turnaround <CanoeBerry> Calling thrice.. <NtugiMark> agreed <CanoeBerry> [TENTATIVELY] APPROVED, with just a bit more details and/or any mentor who can help! [ PROJECT #4 - Rotary Literacy XO Repair Facility - Guatemala & Marysville, WA ] <CanoeBerry> TENTATIVEL APPROVED, with just a bit more details and/or any mentor who can help! <CanoeBerry> Onto Project #4 -- plz all critique/mentor/vote for: <CanoeBerry> Marysville Rotary Literacy XO Repair Facility - Guatemala & <CanoeBerry> Marysville, WA <CanoeBerry> http://rt.laptop.org/Ticket/Display.html?id=82243 <CanoeBerry> http://www.clubrunner.ca/Portal/SitePages/SitePage.aspx?cid=275 <CanoeBerry> SPECIFIC SITE NEEDS TO BE POSTED OFF http://olpcMAP.net & <CanoeBerry> http://j.mp/6UhCtd <CanoeBerry> Requests 10-15 brickes XOs over undetermined months <CanoeBerry> Project Objectives: <CanoeBerry> This is a project that is being lead and developed by High School <CanoeBerry> students with supervision from adult school staff and with the support <CanoeBerry> of outside community computer professionals. Students will learn <CanoeBerry> technology troubleshooting skills, which will be used during the <CanoeBerry> project. Skills include but are not limited to: using a multi-meter, <CanoeBerry> oscilloscope, audio equipment and soldering equipment. Also students <CanoeBerry> will create a working business model on the proper manner of receiving, <CanoeBerry> processing, repairing, packaging and shipping of the XO systems. <CanoeBerry> +1 <cjl> Do you have bricked / busted XOs t osend them? <CanoeBerry> Yes, I'm in favor of shipping them. <cjl> Sounds like a win-win <CanoeBerry> If http://www.clubrunner.ca/Portal/SitePages/SitePage.aspx?cid=275 becomes more vivid and a link is posted on http://olpcMAP.net <CanoeBerry> Objections? <christianabryant> http://www.clubrunner.ca/Portal/SitePages/SitePage.aspx?cid=275&pid=61314 <CanoeBerry> Suggestions? <christianabryant> was there some of the link missing? <NtugiMark> It sounds like a lovely, viable idea...are they known in the OLPC community? How many XO's in that area? <CanoeBerry> Samek link.. <christianabryant> that page has data i sent. <christianabryant> sorry - first one came up blank for some reason :) <CanoeBerry> Yes, they are new to our global community, but already proven in recent months. <CanoeBerry> Calling once.. <CanoeBerry> Calling twice.. <CanoeBerry> Calling thrice.. <christianabryant> +1 if proven. <cjl> +1 for bricks <GrannieB> +1 <CanoeBerry> APPROVED for 10+ bricked XO-1s if ongoing progress documented on blog/similar off of http://olpcMAP.net [ PROJECT #5 - SWAG for Upcoming LUG Meeting - Los Angeles, CA ] <CanoeBerry> Onto Project #5 - please all critique/mentor/vote for: <NtugiMark> +1 <CanoeBerry> SWAG for Upcoming LUG Meeting - Los Angeles, CA <CanoeBerry> http://rt.laptop.org/Ticket/Display.html?id=82585 <CanoeBerry> SPECIFIC SITE NEEDS TO BE POSTED OFF http://olpcMAP.net & <CanoeBerry> http://j.mp/6UhCtd <CanoeBerry> Requests outreach materials <CanoeBerry> Project Objectives: <CanoeBerry> Requests OLPC outreach materials for Linus User Group meeting(s). <christianabryant> not for this guy. very flakey :) <christianabryant> i have checked out an xo-1.5 already, though. <CanoeBerry> +1 for Tchotchkes <GrannieB> oops! I was still on #3! <christianabryant> i have a LinuxChix meeting scheduled... <christianabryant> bringing my daughter and the xo :) <CanoeBerry> OLPC certainly has coffee mugs and a FEW (amazing) leftover stickers made by volunteers Mike Lee and Sameer Verma. The only question is if they are shippable, hopefully! <CanoeBerry> APPROVED :) <GrannieB> We really need to get more SWAG available for events like this. <CanoeBerry> Plz make more, and sell it! * Mr-Steve has joined #olpc-meeting <christianabryant> appreciated. no need to go overboard, and i will print stuff too. <GrannieB> Unfortunately I didn't bring anything with me * Red-Gold-41 ( has joined #olpc-meeting <CanoeBerry> Thanks for wineing+dining yr best Gimp artists around the LA area.. <Indigo-Gold-25> +1 needed resource and good idea to use bricked machines [ PROJECT #6 - Turning Slumdogs into Millionaires/Vocational Skills Transfer - Kolkata, India ] <CanoeBerry> Onto Project #6 - plz all critique/mentor/vote for: <CanoeBerry> Turning Slumdogs into Millionaires/Vocational Skills Transfer - <CanoeBerry> Kolkata, India <CanoeBerry> http://rt.laptop.org/Ticket/Display.html?id=82735 <CanoeBerry> http://impactforpeace.blogspot.com <CanoeBerry> SPECIFIC SITE NEEDS TO BE POSTED OFF http://olpcMAP.net & <CanoeBerry> http://j.mp/6UhCtd <CanoeBerry> Requests 26 XOs over 1.5 months <CanoeBerry> Project Objectives: <CanoeBerry> To uplift the living standard of underprivileged families, by providing <CanoeBerry> vocational trainings, especially computer skillsto enhance their <CanoeBerry> chance of <CanoeBerry> upward social mobility. <CanoeBerry> To infuse in the community the notion that education is an important <CanoeBerry> way for <CanoeBerry> them to get rid of poverty. <CanoeBerry> Hmm, i fear it will take more than a 26-XO marathon to turn slumdogs into millionaires. <cjl> Title is clever, but somewhat offensive and culturally insensitive <christianabryant> anyone know the requestor? minimal information on the blog. <GrannieB> Re: bricked machines... spare parts, canibalize, make 2 good out of 3 bricks, etc <CanoeBerry> Don't know them. They live in Kolkata, so they have a right to dream.. <cjl> they would be equipped with the basic knowledge of the usage of <cjl> Microsoft Office tools <cjl> I thought they were from Hong Kong <CanoeBerry> OK, you're right -- they're mostly in Hong Kong, recruiting for the India / West Bengal project. <NtugiMark> It seems very vague <MikeDawson> I don't get why XOs as opposed to any other kind of computer <NtugiMark> uplift yes, but what are the specifics and plan? <cjl> They want to teach MSOffice wit hthese, sounds like they haven't done their homework <Indigo-Gold-25> this project does not have real educational goals, or curriculum ideas. It is good for a two week program, but not for a program which is supposed to have long term, sustainable outcomes <GrannieB> Cute, but this sort of thing needs to be done with fundraising and donors. Maybe a starter kit. <Indigo-Gold-25> Too broad, need to come up with real curriculum, not based on MSWord <GrannieB> They evidently don't have a clue what the XOs can do <CanoeBerry> Yep, the vocational thing is important, but a bit distant from OLPC's core mission <christianabryant> i'd like to hear more from Jamil Ahmed. he seems to be the brains on this. <CanoeBerry> Yes, http://impactforpeace.blogspot.com is a start.. <CanoeBerry> -1 for now, until we hear more and/or get closer to the OLPC/Sugar vision. <CanoeBerry> Votes please? <cjl> proposal is naive -1 <MikeDawson> -1 as this would seem more suitable for other computers <CanoeBerry> Calling once.. <CanoeBerry> Calling twice.. <CanoeBerry> Calling thrice.. <MikeDawson> for vocational training <GrannieB> -1 <NtugiMark> -1 <CanoeBerry> ON HOLD. Proposal needs revision/explanation, in context with OLPC's goals: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Core_principles [ PROJECT #7 - OLPC Paktika, with Paiwastoon - Afghanistan ] <CanoeBerry> Onto Project #7 -- plz all critique/mentor/vote for: <CanoeBerry> OLPC Paktika, with Paiwastoon - Afghanistan <CanoeBerry> http://rt.laptop.org/Ticket/Display.html?id=82810 <CanoeBerry> http://www.paiwastoon.af <CanoeBerry> SPECIFIC SITE NEEDS TO BE POSTED OFF http://olpcMAP.net & <CanoeBerry> http://j.mp/6UhCtd <CanoeBerry> Requests 10-12 laptops for 3+ months <CanoeBerry> Project Objectives: <CanoeBerry> Ensure that teachers in Paktika where 450 XO 1.5s will be delivered are <CanoeBerry> comfortable and confident before children's laptops arrive. Create and <CanoeBerry> trial new interactive teacher training materials (developed with EXE see <CanoeBerry> www.paiwastoon.af/eldep) that will help standardize teacher training and <CanoeBerry> ensure all teachers have completed essential teacher training modules <CanoeBerry> (avoid issues where trainers short change training time). <CanoeBerry> Afghanistan's children suffer from critically short classroom <CanoeBerry> instruction time, receiving roughly 55% of class time in comparison to <CanoeBerry> UNESCO’s average of countries like Argentina, Basil, India, Jamaica, <CanoeBerry> Jordan, Malaysia, Peru, Russian Federation, Tunisia or Uruguay. Due <CanoeBerry> mostly to a lack of resources in terms of both material and human <CanoeBerry> capital, Afghan schools are often teaching between 2-3 shifts a day with <CanoeBerry> the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan’s Ministry of <CanoeBerry> Education delivering approximately 35 minutes classroom time per subject <CanoeBerry> and 5 subjects per grade. <CanoeBerry> Also, Afghanistan’s harsh winters, mountainous geography and severe lack <CanoeBerry> of infrastructure imposes yet another significant limitation on the <CanoeBerry> Afghan school year. <CanoeBerry> Sorry, this application is very long. 1 more paragraph coming.. <CanoeBerry> PAIWASTOON found that the minority of homework is marked by the <CanoeBerry> teachers; while that being marked is done hastily without provision of <CanoeBerry> in-depth feedback. Hence, OLPC's interactive book is an improvement to <CanoeBerry> offering little or no feedback as is currently practiced. Interactive <CanoeBerry> digital learning applications also can support children's problem <CanoeBerry> solving and logic abilities to find their own mistakes. In terms of <CanoeBerry> gender implications, the OLPC offers equal opportunity to both girls <CanoeBerry> and boys; whereas boys in some circumstances are allowed greater <CanoeBerry> freedom leave the home seeking help and feedback, girls often don't <CanoeBerry> have this ability. A digital device with learning content can turn <CanoeBerry> any space into a virtual classroom. More so, rote learning is <CanoeBerry> dominant throughout Afghanistan and by overcoming feedback challenges, <CanoeBerry> time can be found to use constructivist tools such as the already <CanoeBerry> localized turtle, etoys and scratch. <CanoeBerry> If you missed the Application/Objectives above, see Project #7 here: <CanoeBerry> http://lists.sugarlabs.org/archive/iaep/2011-June/013460.html <christianabryant> have the 450 xos been purchased already? or they are planning to if the "pilot" works? <MikeDawson> let me explain <CanoeBerry> MikeDawson: who stayed awake way too long in Afghanistan, care to introduce your work quick? <MikeDawson> We are purchasing 450 XO 1.5s for a school in this province <MikeDawson> They will take 90-120 days to arrive <CanoeBerry> And explain why you did not buy 451 units, in memory of Ray Bradbury ;) <MikeDawson> We want to make sure that we do the teacher training well ahead of time so teachers feel comfortable with the laptops and confident to use them in class <christianabryant> +1 without hesitation... <MikeDawson> to that end we are re-working teacher training materials using EXE and those new reworked materials will be shared as well <MikeDawson> As per the post we have already developed localized educational content and been around here a little while :) <MikeDawson> any questions? <christianabryant> how is the situation there affecting delivery? <christianabryant> forgive the generalization. <MikeDawson> the delivery goes on a helicopter <CanoeBerry> What is the license around EXE software and materials? <MikeDawson> The delivery comes first to me in Kabul - we will take them on the helicopter with us when we go to do the training <MikeDawson> Materials will be licensed CC by attribution <MikeDawson> EXE is GPL <GrannieB> Great project. But, be sure the you indoctranate the teachers in useing constructionism, project based learning, etc. Don't let them use the XOs for the same old "sage on a stage" style of teaching! <NtugiMark> +1 if helicopters are involved ;) <Mr-Steve> Where can I find existing Teacher training materials? <christianabryant> eXe learning is awesome :) <cjl> +1 if you poke the fa_AF and ps localizers for me, I can be bought. . . <CanoeBerry> How has the EXE learning content plan change over the past 13 months, what has been learned in general, since it was introduce at the Realness Summit in the Virgin Islands? <NtugiMark> sorry, all, must run <MikeDawson> cjl: can be done <CanoeBerry> NtugiMark: see you tonight hopefully! <GrannieB> Everyone needs to see the multiplication tables cartoon we watched in Montevideo <NtugiMark> You have a place to stay btw * Luigi has joined #olpc-meeting * NtugiMark has left #olpc-meeting <GrannieB> There are a lot of things out there but not specific to olpc <MikeDawson> CanoeBerry - have been hunting to find a developer to get my code cleaned - uploaded a slighltly updated version <CanoeBerry> Will the materials be translated to other languages? <MikeDawson> Hopefully will have a developer in place in the next couple months to clean bugs upload to sf.net etc <MikeDawson> anyone interested in some python development on this email me <CanoeBerry> Or remain in Pashto for now. <MikeDawson> materials will be translated by us into Dari and Pashto <MikeDawson> but will also be available in English for anyone else <GrannieB> I wish! <MikeDawson> masters will be written first in English <CanoeBerry> Who will translate to English and when? <MikeDawson> We will write it in English to begin with and that will be available online mid August at the latest <CanoeBerry> You mean British not English ;) <CanoeBerry> OK <GrannieB> Would you like an educators input? <CanoeBerry> Yes. <CanoeBerry> Votes, suggestions please. <cjl> +1 <christianabryant> +1 <GrannieB> five fit in a box, 6 don't <GrannieB> +1 for 10 <MikeDawson> A couple extra bricks would help ; ) <GrannieB> good idea! <CanoeBerry> My suggestion: 20 bricks or 10 refubished XO-1s <GrannieB> +1 for 10 good ones and 2 bricks for spare parts <CanoeBerry> 20 teachers each may need their own. <CanoeBerry> And can earn their own if they put help prepare the meal. <MikeDawson> hybrid solution possible? 8 refurbs and 12 bricks? <GrannieB> you have a point. That is why Rosamel has a red XO <GrannieB> +1 for 8R + 12B <CanoeBerry> Stock is a bit tight, but let's consider. <CanoeBerry> Closing thoughts? <MikeDawson> We have a lot going on this project here - first time I managed to get a PhD candidate researcher to help with evaluation and proving the case <CanoeBerry> Afghan/Paktika photos? <GrannieB> Have a great time in Haiti... will you be blogging? <MikeDawson> The education director and the commander of all allied forces in the region are up on it <MikeDawson> Photos not possible for security reasons <CanoeBerry> Will try. Haiti trip will be intense June 17 to July 4. <MikeDawson> can only sned photos where we don't show anyone's face or give the location away <CanoeBerry> OK <MikeDawson> But will actively blog it <GrannieB> But, everyone else has to blog! ;-D <CanoeBerry> MikeDawson: plz clarify the shipping address / shipping method ASAP over private email. <CanoeBerry> Blogging without photos is OK in this case. <CanoeBerry> Conclusions? <CanoeBerry> Calling once.. <CanoeBerry> Calling twice.. <CanoeBerry> Calling thrice.. <GrannieB> It's way past lunch time! Gotta go <christianabryant> i look forward to seeing the results of this deployment... cheers :) <christianabryant> and thank you for the swag :) <GrannieB> +1 <CanoeBerry> APPROVED for 20 XO-1s, most of which will likely be bricks needing refubishing as follows: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Fix_Clock [ CLOSING REMARKS ] * GrannieB Quit (Quit: CGI:IRC (EOF)) <MikeDawson> Thanks All! * Luigi Quit (Quit: CGI:IRC (EOF)) <CanoeBerry> MikeDawson: sending shipping details ASAP -- regardless you will receive 2 boxes of 10 units each -- each box being 38+ pounds, 11.5 x 11.5 x 15 inches. <christianabryant> adam - what do you need from me? <cjl> MikeDawson: I'll contact you by e-mail about glibc locales and stuff. <cjl> CanoeBerry: Do you need t oturn the meeting bot off? <MikeDawson> CanoeBery: Will sned you an email right now with the APO address <MikeDawson> CanoeBerry: Need to get the Zip code on that APO - then should be 100% gauranteed <christianabryant> CanoeBerry: i'll keep and eye on rt for updates. thanks and have a good one :) <CanoeBerry> christianabryant: just reply w/ your shipping address / phone number for http://rt.laptop.org/Ticket/Display.html?id=82585 <MikeDawson> cjl: will follow-up by email <MikeDawson> cjl: Need to check in with my project manager tomorrow morning <CanoeBerry> And a promise to publish any sharp .svg / .png etc designs your street kids cook up :) * christianabryant Quit (Quit: CGI:IRC (EOF)) <CanoeBerry> cjl: I cut+paste instead of using the meeting bot; will appear here within ~10min: http://wiki.laptop.org/go/Contributors_program/May_20,_2011 <CanoeBerry> Unless someone else turned on the meeting bot, and now needs to turn it off? <cjl> CanoeBerry: Ok, jsut checking' * MikeDawson Quit (Quit: CGI:IRC)